5 Operational Jobs Within the Tourism and Hospitality Industry

5 Operational Jobs Within the Tourism and Hospitality Industry

While engineering, accounting, carpentry, and other trades-related jobs may not seem like obvious choices for jobs in the tourism industry, they are an important factor in the smooth operation of hotels, attractions, and event venues.

Working in the hotel industry comes with many perks, like building a strong sense of community and comradery with your coworkers and taking discounted trips.

Here are some examples of skilled work that can be transferable into the tourism or hospitality industry:

Engineering roles in Tourism:

Engineers can work in the tourism industry as maintenance engineers or project managers. They can use their technical skills to ensure that tourism infrastructure, such as hotels, resorts, or theme parks, are operating efficiently and safely. Here are just a few ways that engineers can work within the tourism industry.

Civil Engineers

Infrastructure Development: Design and oversee the construction of roads, bridges, airports, and other infrastructure that support tourism.
Facility Management: Ensure that tourism facilities like hotels, resorts, and recreational areas are built to last and meet safety standards.

Structural Engineers

Building Design: Work on designing and reinforcing structures like hotels, tourist attractions, and entertainment venues to ensure they are safe and aesthetically pleasing.
Restoration Projects: Inherit historical or cultural sites, working on their preservation and enhancement for tourism purposes.

Environmental Engineers

Sustainability: Implement sustainable practices in tourism projects to minimize environmental impact, such as waste management systems and water conservation methods.
Eco-Tourism: Design eco-friendly tourist facilities and develop strategies to protect natural landscapes while promoting tourism.

Transportation Engineers

Traffic Management: Optimize transportation networks to handle tourist influx efficiently and reduce congestion.
Public Transit Systems: Develop and improve public transit systems to make travel to and within tourist destinations more accessible.

Mechanical Engineers

HVAC Systems: Design heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for hotels, resorts, and other tourist facilities to ensure comfort.
Attractions Maintenance: Work on the mechanical systems of amusement parks, rides, and other attractions to ensure they are safe and operational.

Electrical Engineers

Power Systems: Design electrical systems for tourism facilities, ensuring reliable power supply and incorporating energy-efficient technologies.
Lighting Design: Develop lighting solutions for both indoor and outdoor tourist attractions, enhancing the ambiance and safety.

Software Engineers

Booking Systems: Develop and maintain online booking systems, mobile apps, and other digital platforms that facilitate the tourism experience.
Data Analytics: Analyze tourism data to help businesses understand trends, preferences, and improve service delivery.

Construction Engineers

Project Management: Oversee the construction of tourism-related projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards.
Quality Control: Implement quality assurance measures to ensure that construction work meets all necessary regulations and standards.

Accounting skills in Tourism:

Accountants can work in the tourism industry as financial analysts or controllers. They can use their financial expertise to manage budgets, analyze financial data, and develop financial strategies for tourism organizations. Here are some key accounting roles within this sector:

Hotel Accountant

Responsibilities: Manage financial records for hotels, including guest charges, payroll, and vendor payments. Prepare financial reports, track occupancy rates, and handle budgeting and forecasting.
Skills: Knowledge of hospitality-specific accounting software, attention to detail, and understanding of hotel operations.

Revenue Accountant

Responsibilities: Focus on revenue management and optimization, including tracking and analyzing revenue streams, managing reservations, and ensuring accurate recording of revenue.
Skills: Proficiency in revenue management systems, strong analytical skills, and familiarity with industry-specific revenue recognition practices.

Cost Controller

Responsibilities: Monitor and control costs related to food, beverages, and other operational expenses. Analyze cost reports, implement cost-saving measures, and ensure adherence to budgets.
Skills: Expertise in cost accounting, budget management, and cost control techniques.

Financial Analyst

Responsibilities: Analyze financial data to support decision-making. Prepare financial forecasts, conduct profitability analyses, and evaluate investment opportunities within the tourism and hospitality sector.
Skills: Strong analytical skills, proficiency in financial modeling, and experience with financial software.

Controller

Responsibilities: Oversee all accounting operations, including financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls. Manage a team of accountants and ensure accurate and timely financial information.
Skills: Leadership, expertise in accounting principles, and experience with financial regulations and compliance.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Responsibilities: Develop and execute financial strategies for the organization, oversee budgeting and financial planning, manage financial risks, and provide strategic advice to senior management.
Skills: Extensive experience in financial management, strategic thinking, and strong leadership abilities.

Tax Accountant

Responsibilities: Manage tax compliance and planning, including preparing and filing tax returns, understanding tax regulations related to tourism and hospitality, and advising on tax-saving strategies.
Skills: Knowledge of tax laws and regulations, attention to detail, and experience with tax software.

Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk

Responsibilities: Handle transactions related to payments and receipts. Process invoices, manage accounts payable and receivable, and maintain accurate financial records.
Skills: Proficiency in accounting software, organizational skills, and attention to detail.

Audit Manager

Responsibilities: Conduct internal audits to ensure financial accuracy and compliance with regulations. Identify areas for improvement, implement audit recommendations, and liaise with external auditors.
Skills: Experience in auditing, knowledge of industry-specific regulations, and strong analytical skills.

Payroll Specialist

Responsibilities: Manage payroll processing for employees, including calculating wages, handling deductions, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations.
Skills: Familiarity with payroll systems, understanding of labor laws, and attention to detail.

Budget Analyst

Responsibilities: Develop and manage budgets for various departments or projects within the tourism and hospitality sector. Monitor budget performance, analyze variances, and provide recommendations for adjustments.
Skills: Strong analytical skills, proficiency in budgeting software, and experience with financial analysis.

Treasury Analyst

Responsibilities: Manage cash flow, investment activities, and financial risk. Analyze and forecast financial trends, handle banking relationships, and ensure adequate liquidity.
Skills: Expertise in cash management, financial forecasting, and investment analysis.

Each of these roles contributes to the smooth operation and financial health of tourism and hospitality businesses, ensuring they can deliver exceptional service while maintaining profitability and compliance.

Carpentry skills in Tourism:

Carpentry jobs in the tourism and hospitality industry focus on creating and maintaining the physical environment of hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other tourism-related facilities. These roles involve working on a variety of projects, from custom woodwork and furniture to structural repairs and renovations. Here are some specific carpentry jobs in this sector:

Hotel Carpenter

Responsibilities: Install, repair, and maintain wooden structures and fixtures within hotel properties, such as doors, windows, cabinetry, and furniture. Work on both guest rooms and common areas.
Skills: Expertise in woodworking, attention to detail, and knowledge of hotel design standards.

Resort Carpenter

Responsibilities: Build and maintain wooden structures like deckings, gazebos, and outdoor furniture in resort settings. Work on custom projects to enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of resort facilities.
Skills: Experience with outdoor construction, knowledge of weather-resistant materials, and creativity in design.

Restaurant Carpenter

Responsibilities: Construct and install custom woodwork for restaurant interiors, including bar counters, tables, and cabinetry. Perform renovations and repairs to ensure a welcoming dining environment.
Skills: Understanding of restaurant design and layout, proficiency in woodworking techniques, and ability to work with commercial-grade materials.

Custom Furniture Maker

Responsibilities: Design and create bespoke furniture pieces for hotels, resorts, or restaurants. This can include unique bed frames, custom dining tables, or decorative elements that align with the property’s theme.
Skills: High-level carpentry skills, creativity, and ability to work from design specifications.

Maintenance Carpenter

Responsibilities: Perform routine maintenance and repair tasks on wooden structures and fixtures throughout tourism and hospitality properties. Address issues like squeaky doors, damaged paneling, or broken furniture.
Skills: Strong problem-solving skills, knowledge of general maintenance practices, and ability to work efficiently.

Interior Fit-Out Carpenter

Responsibilities: Focus on the interior fit-out of new hotels, resorts, or restaurants, including installing partitions, ceilings, flooring, and cabinetry. Ensure that all installations meet design specifications and safety standards.
Skills: Expertise in interior carpentry, understanding of building codes, and attention to detail.

Exterior Carpenter

Responsibilities: Work on the exterior woodwork of tourism properties, such as installing siding, decking, and outdoor structures. Handle weather-related wear and tear and ensure long-lasting durability.
Skills: Knowledge of exterior carpentry techniques, weather-resistant materials, and safety practices.

Construction Carpenter

Responsibilities: Work on new construction projects or major renovations for tourism-related buildings. This may include framing, installing structural components, and collaborating with other trades.
Skills: Proficiency in construction carpentry, ability to read blueprints, and experience with construction tools and techniques.

Historic Restoration Carpenter

Responsibilities: Specialize in restoring and preserving historic or heritage properties within the tourism sector. This includes repairing and replicating period-specific woodwork and ensuring compliance with preservation guidelines.
Skills: Expertise in historical carpentry techniques, attention to detail, and knowledge of preservation standards.

Cabinet Maker

Responsibilities: Design and build custom cabinets for hotel rooms, restaurant kitchens, and other areas. Focus on high-quality finishes and craftsmanship to enhance the property’s aesthetic and functionality.
Skills: Precision in cabinet making, familiarity with different types of wood and finishes, and ability to work with detailed specifications.

These carpentry roles are integral to creating and maintaining appealing, functional, and durable environments in the tourism and hospitality industry. Carpenters in this field must balance technical skills with an understanding of design and customer expectations to contribute effectively to the overall guest experience.

Maintenance skills in Tourism:

Maintenance workers can find jobs in the tourism industry as facility managers, equipment operators, or maintenance technicians. They can use their skills to ensure that tourism infrastructure, such as hotels, resorts, or attractions, are operating smoothly and safely.

Maintenance jobs in the tourism industry are crucial for ensuring that facilities remain in excellent condition and provide a positive experience for guests. These roles cover a wide range of responsibilities, from routine upkeep to emergency repairs. Here’s a look at various maintenance positions in the tourism sector:

Maintenance Technician

Responsibilities: Perform general maintenance tasks such as repairing electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC systems, and other mechanical equipment. Handle routine inspections and preventive maintenance to ensure everything is functioning properly.
Skills: Broad technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and experience with various maintenance tools and systems.

Facilities Manager

Responsibilities: Oversee the maintenance and operation of all facility systems within hotels, resorts, or other tourism-related properties. Manage maintenance staff, coordinate repairs, handle budgeting for maintenance projects, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
Skills: Strong leadership, project management, and organizational skills. Knowledge of facility management software and regulations.

Groundskeeper

Responsibilities: Maintain outdoor areas such as gardens, lawns, and recreational spaces. Duties include landscaping, gardening, irrigation system maintenance, and ensuring that outdoor areas are clean and visually appealing.
Skills: Expertise in horticulture, landscaping, and outdoor maintenance. Ability to use gardening tools and machinery effectively.

Building Engineer

Responsibilities: Manage the operation and maintenance of building systems such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing in large tourism properties. Conduct regular inspections, perform repairs, and ensure that systems are operating efficiently.
Skills: Technical expertise in building systems, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple systems and tasks.

Hotel Maintenance Engineer

Responsibilities: Focus on maintaining and repairing hotel-specific systems and equipment, including guest room fixtures, common area amenities, and kitchen appliances. Ensure that all systems meet the hotel’s quality and safety standards.
Skills: Experience with hotel maintenance operations, attention to detail, and proficiency in handling a range of maintenance tasks.

Housekeeping Maintenance

Responsibilities: Address maintenance issues identified by housekeeping staff, such as repairing damaged furniture, fixing plumbing issues in guest rooms, and ensuring that rooms are in top condition for guests.
Skills: Basic carpentry, plumbing, and electrical repair skills. Good communication with housekeeping and guest services teams.

Pool Technician

Responsibilities: Maintain and repair swimming pool equipment and systems. Monitor water quality, handle chemical treatments, and ensure that pool areas are clean and safe for guests.
Skills: Knowledge of pool maintenance, water chemistry, and safety standards. Ability to perform repairs on pool equipment.

Safety and Security Technician

Responsibilities: Ensure that safety and security systems, such as fire alarms, surveillance cameras, and access control systems, are operational. Perform regular inspections, conduct emergency drills, and address any system malfunctions.
Skills: Expertise in security systems, knowledge of safety regulations, and ability to troubleshoot and repair security equipment.

Elevator Technician

Responsibilities: Maintain and repair elevators and escalators within tourism properties. Conduct regular inspections, address malfunctions, and ensure that all equipment meets safety standards.
Skills: Specialized knowledge of elevator systems, attention to safety regulations, and mechanical troubleshooting skills.

Technical Services Coordinator

Responsibilities: Coordinate and schedule maintenance and repair work, manage service contracts, and liaise with external contractors. Ensure that all maintenance tasks are completed on time and within budget.
Skills: Strong organizational and communication skills, experience with maintenance management software, and project management abilities.

Electrician skills used in Tourism:

Electricians can work in the tourism industry as electrical technicians, lighting designers, or renewable energy specialists. They can use their skills to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in tourism infrastructure, such as hotels, resorts, or theme parks.

Electrician jobs in the tourism industry are essential for maintaining the electrical systems that power hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other tourism-related facilities. These roles involve ensuring that all electrical systems and equipment are functioning correctly, safely, and efficiently. Here’s an overview of various electrician roles within the tourism sector:

Hotel Electrician

Responsibilities: Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems within hotel properties. This includes guest room wiring, lighting systems, HVAC controls, and emergency power systems. Address any electrical issues reported by guests or staff.
Skills: Knowledge of hotel-specific electrical systems, proficiency in troubleshooting, and familiarity with safety standards.

Resort Electrician

Responsibilities: Work on the electrical infrastructure of resort properties, including recreational facilities, pools, and landscaping lighting. Ensure that all systems are operational and maintain the aesthetic and functional aspects of the resort.
Skills: Expertise in outdoor and specialty lighting, experience with resort amenities, and ability to work in diverse environments.

Restaurant Electrician

Responsibilities: Maintain and repair electrical systems in restaurant settings, such as kitchen equipment, lighting, and dining area fixtures. Ensure that electrical systems are up to code and operate efficiently to support restaurant operations.
Skills: Familiarity with commercial kitchen electrical systems, attention to safety, and ability to handle high-traffic areas.

Maintenance Electrician

Responsibilities: Handle routine electrical maintenance and emergency repairs across various tourism-related properties. Perform inspections, address electrical faults, and ensure that all systems are in compliance with regulations.
Skills: Broad electrical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and experience with preventive maintenance.

Lighting Technician

Responsibilities: Design, install, and maintain lighting systems for both interior and exterior spaces in tourism properties. This includes decorative lighting for lobbies, dining areas, and outdoor settings, as well as functional lighting for safety and security.
Skills: Expertise in lighting design and installation, knowledge of energy-efficient lighting solutions, and ability to create aesthetically pleasing environments.

Electrical Systems Manager

Responsibilities: Oversee the electrical systems of large tourism facilities, including hotels and resorts. Manage a team of electricians, coordinate maintenance schedules, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
Skills: Strong leadership, project management, and extensive knowledge of electrical systems and regulations.

Electrical Inspector

Responsibilities: Inspect electrical systems in tourism properties to ensure they meet safety codes and standards. Conduct regular inspections, perform testing, and provide reports on compliance and necessary repairs.
Skills: In-depth knowledge of electrical codes and standards, attention to detail, and experience in electrical inspection.

Energy Efficiency Technician

Responsibilities: Focus on improving energy efficiency in tourism properties by analyzing electrical systems, recommending upgrades, and implementing energy-saving technologies. Monitor energy consumption and report on savings.
Skills: Knowledge of energy-efficient technologies, experience with energy audits, and ability to implement sustainability practices.

HVAC Electrician

Responsibilities: Specialize in the electrical components of HVAC systems within tourism properties. Install, maintain, and repair HVAC control systems, thermostats, and related electrical equipment.
Skills: Expertise in HVAC electrical systems, knowledge of temperature control systems, and experience with commercial HVAC setups.

Electrical Project Manager

Responsibilities: Manage electrical projects for new constructions or major renovations in tourism facilities. Oversee electrical installations, coordinate with other contractors, and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
Skills: Project management experience, knowledge of electrical codes and standards, and ability to manage multiple tasks and teams.

Custom Lighting Installer

Responsibilities: Install and configure custom lighting solutions for unique tourism spaces, such as themed resorts or specialized event venues. Work with designers to create custom lighting effects that enhance the guest experience.
Skills: Expertise in custom lighting solutions, ability to interpret design specifications, and creativity in lighting design.

These electrician roles are critical in ensuring that tourism and hospitality facilities offer a safe, functional, and pleasant environment for guests. Electricians in this sector must balance technical skills with a strong understanding of the unique requirements and challenges of tourism properties.

In general, any operational-related job requiring project management, budgeting, maintenance, or construction can be transferable to the tourism industry. With a little creativity and adaptation, professionals from a wide range of industries can find opportunities to work in tourism.